MERRILL LYNCH
ARKANSAS
MUNICIPAL
BOND FUND
FUND LOGO
Annual Report
July 31, 1999
This report is not authorized for use as an offer of sale
or a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of the Fund unless
accompanied or preceded by the Fund's current prospectus. Past
performance results shown in this report should not be considered
a representation of future performance. Investment return and
principal value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when
redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.
Statements and other information herein are as dated and
are subject to change.
Merrill Lynch Arkansas
Municipal Bond Fund
Merrill Lynch Multi-State
Municipal Series Trust
Box 9011
Princeton, NJ
08543-9011
Printed on post-consumer recycled paper
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
TO OUR SHAREHOLDERS
The Municipal Market Environment
During the six months ended July 31, 1999, long-term bond yields
rose significantly. Steady US economic growth combined with
improvement in foreign economies, most notably Japan and Brazil, as
well as an inflation scare in early May put upward pressure on bond
yields throughout the period. Continued strong US employment growth,
particularly the decline in the US unemployment rate to 4.2% in
early June, was among the reasons the Federal Reserve Board cited
for raising short-term interest rates in late June. US Treasury bond
yields reacted by climbing above 6.15% by late June before improving
somewhat to 6.10% by July 31, 1999. During the last six months,
yields on long-term US Treasury securities increased approximately
100 basis points (1.00%).
Long-term tax-exempt bond yields also rose during the last six
months. Until early May, the municipal bond market had been able to
withstand much of the upward pressure on bond yields. However,
investor concerns regarding ongoing US economic strength and the
fear of additional moves by the Federal Reserve Board eventually
pushed municipal bond yields higher throughout June and July. During
the period, the yields on long-term tax-exempt revenue bonds rose
almost 50 basis points to 5.65%, as measured by the Bond Buyer
Revenue Bond Index.
The ability of the tax-exempt bond market to withstand much of the
recent upward pressure on long-term fixed-income bond yields has
been a reflection of the continued strong technical position the
municipal bond market has enjoyed in recent quarters. During the
last six months, more than $120 billion in long-term municipal bonds
was underwritten, a decrease of more than 20% compared to the same
period a year ago. During the past three months, more than $60
billion in municipal bonds was underwritten. This quarterly issuance
represents a decline of nearly 25% compared to the same three-month
period in 1998.
Recently, the municipal supply position deteriorated even further.
Total issuance in July 1999 of $16.5 billion was more than 30% lower
than July 1998 levels. Additionally, in June and July, investors
received more than $40 billion in coupon income and proceeds from
bond maturities and early bond redemptions. These proceeds have
generated significant retail investor interest, easily absorbing the
recent diminished supply. This very favorable supply/demand position
allowed the tax-exempt bond market to outperform its taxable
counterpart in recent months.
However, the recent relative outperformance of the municipal bond
market has somewhat reduced the very attractive tax-exempt bond
yield ratios that were available at the end of 1998. In December
1998, long-term, uninsured municipal bond yields were higher than
those of their taxable counterparts. Historically, long-term tax-
exempt bond yields have been approximately 82%--85% of long-term US
Treasury bond yields. Municipal bond yields rose at a lower rate in
recent months than US Treasury bond yields, causing the yield ratio
to decline. At July 31, 1999, long-term municipal bond yields were
approximately 92% of their taxable counterparts. Current ratios,
while lower than those available at the end of 1998, still represent
historically attractive levels. We expect the municipal bond market
to maintain its strong technical position for the remainder of 1999.
Consequently, there appears to be little reason for the tax-exempt
bond market to underperform the taxable US Treasury bond market.
This suggests that the present bond yield ratio is likely to remain
stable in the coming months and a return to a ratio in excess of
100% of taxable Treasury securities is improbable.
Looking ahead, it appears to us that long-term municipal bond yields
will trade in a relatively tight range near current levels. Strong
US economic performance is being balanced by nearly negligible
inflation data, as well as improvements in productivity in both
manufacturing and service industries. Future moves by the Federal
Reserve Board have largely been discounted by bond markets and are
to a great extent reflected in present bond yields.
Any improvement in bond prices is likely to be contingent upon
weakening in both US employment growth and consumer spending. The
100 basis point rise in US Treasury bond yields seen thus far this
year is likely to negatively affect US economic growth. The US
housing market will be among the first sectors likely to be
affected, as some declines have already been evidenced because of
higher mortgage rates. We believe it is also unrealistic to expect
double-digit returns in US equity markets to continue indefinitely.
Much of the US consumer's wealth is tied to recent stock market
appreciation. Any slowing in these incredible growth rates is likely
to reduce consumer spending. These factors suggest that the worst of
the recent increase in bond yields has passed and stable, if not
slightly improving, bond prices may be expected.
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
Fiscal Year in Review
The Fund started the fiscal year ended July 31, 1999 fully invested
based on our expectations for steady economic growth and low
inflation. This scenario characterized the first six months of the
fiscal year. Therefore, we held a neutral-to-aggressive investment
posture for much of this period. We maintained the Fund's fully
invested position and structured the portfolio in an effort to
enable us to participate in any bond market rally, thus enhancing
the total return to shareholders. In addition, we carefully
monitored our call protection in order to seek to achieve ample tax-
exempt income for our shareholders for many years to come.
During the second half of the fiscal year, the combination of strong
growth and accelerating inflationary concerns caused the Federal
Reserve Board to raise short-term interest rates by 25 basis points.
Over the last few months of the fiscal year, we realized that both
growth and inflationary fears could negatively impact the bond
market, and we shifted our portfolio strategy. We adopted a
defensive position by reducing our exposure to the bond market and
by maintaining a cash reserve position of about 10%--15% of net
assets.
Looking ahead, we are seeking an opportune time to reenter the bond
market. Since long-term Treasury yields are now over 6% and long-
term municipal bonds are trading at approximately 95% of Treasury
issues (as compared to the historic average of between 85%--90%), we
are considering this opportunity to reinvest the Fund's cash
reserves at significantly higher yields than just a few months
earlier.
During the fiscal year ended July 31, 1999, our investment
strategies benefited the Fund's performance, as the Fund had total
returns of +1.42%, +0.91%, +0.81% and +1.32% for Class A, Class B,
Class C and Class D Shares, respectively. (Complete performance
information can be found on pages 3-5 of this report to
shareholders.)
In Conclusion
We appreciate your ongoing interest in Merrill Lynch Arkansas
Municipal Bond Fund, and we look forward to serving your investment
needs in the months and years to come.
Sincerely,
(Terry K. Glenn)
Terry K. Glenn
President
(Vincent R. Giordano)
Vincent R. Giordano
Senior Vice President
(Hugh T. Hurley III)
Hugh T. Hurley III
Vice President and Portfolio Manager
September 8, 1999
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
PERFORMANCE DATA
About Fund Performance
Investors are able to purchase shares of the Fund through the
Merrill Lynch Select Pricing SM System, which offers four pricing
alternatives:
* Class A Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge (front-end
load) of 4% and bear no ongoing distribution or account maintenance
fees. Class A Shares are available only to eligible investors.
* Class B Shares are subject to a maximum contingent deferred sales
charge of 4% if redeemed during the first year, decreasing 1% each
year thereafter to 0% after the fourth year. In addition, Class B
Shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.25% and an account
maintenance fee of 0.25%. These shares automatically convert to
Class D Shares after approximately 10 years. (There is no initial
sales charge for automatic share conversions.)
* Class C Shares are subject to a distribution fee of 0.35% and an
account maintenance fee of 0.25%. In addition, Class C Shares are
subject to a 1% contingent deferred sales charge if redeemed within
one year of purchase.
* Class D Shares incur a maximum initial sales charge of 4% and an
account maintenance fee of 0.10% (but no distribution fee).
None of the past results shown should be considered a representation
of future performance. Figures shown in the "Recent Performance
Results" and "Average Annual Total Return" tables assume
reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains distributions at net
asset value on the payable date. Investment return and principal
value of shares will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be
worth more or less than their original cost. Dividends paid to each
class of shares will vary because of the different levels of account
maintenance, distribution and transfer agency fees applicable to
each class, which are deducted from the income available to be paid
to shareholders.
<TABLE>
Recent Performance Results*
<CAPTION>
Standardized
12 Month 3 Month Since Inception 30-Day Yield
Total Return Total Return Total Return As of 7/31/99
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund Class A Shares +1.42% -1.62% +32.64% 2.68%
ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund Class B Shares +0.91 -1.75 +29.40 2.28
ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund Class C Shares +0.81 -1.77 +29.33 2.19
ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund Class D Shares +1.32 -1.65 +32.61 2.58
<FN>
*Investment results shown do not reflect sales charges; results
would be lower if a sales charge was included. Total investment
returns are based on changes in net asset values for the periods
shown, and assume reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains
distributions at net asset value on the payable date. The Fund's
since inception dates are from 9/30/94 for Class A & Class B Shares
and from 10/21/94 for Class C & Class D Shares.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
PERFORMANCE DATA (continued)
Total Return Based on a $10,000 Investment
A line graph depicting the growth of an investment in the Fund's
Class A Shares and Class B Shares compared to growth of an
investment in the Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index. Beginning
and ending values are:
9/30/94** 7/99
ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund++--
Class A Shares* $ 9,600 $12,732
ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund++--
Class B Shares* $10,000 $12,940
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index++++ $10,000 $13,982
A line graph depicting the growth of an investment in the Fund's
Class C Shares and Class D Shares compared to growth of an
investment in the Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index. Beginning
and ending values are:
10/21/94** 7/99
ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund++--
Class C Shares* $ 9,600 $12,732
ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund++--
Class D Shares* $10,000 $12,940
Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond
Index++++ $10,000 $13,982
[FN]
*Assuming maximum sales charge, transaction costs and other
operating expenses, including advisory fees.
**Commencement of operations.
++ML Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund invests primarily in long-term
investment-grade obligations issued by or on behalf of the state of
Arkansas, its political subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities
and obligations of other qualifying issuers.
++++This unmanaged Index consists of long-term revenue bonds,
prerefunded bonds, general obligation bonds and insured bonds. The
starting date for the Index in the Class C & Class D Shares' graph is
from 10/31/94.
Past performance is not predictive of future performance.
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
PERFORMANCE DATA (concluded)
Average Annual Total Return
% Return Without % Return With
Sales Charge Sales Charge**
Class A Shares*
Year Ended 6/30/99 +1.03% -3.01%
Inception (9/30/94)
through 6/30/99 +6.08 +5.17
[FN]
*Maximum sales charge is 4%.
**Assuming maximum sales charge.
% Return % Return
Without CDSC With CDSC**
Class B Shares*
Year Ended 6/30/99 +0.51% -3.35%
Inception (9/30/94)
through 6/30/99 +5.52 +5.52
[FN]
*Maximum contingent deferred sales charge is 4% and is reduced to 0%
after 4 years.
**Assuming payment of applicable contingent deferred sales charge.
% Return % Return
Without CDSC With CDSC**
Class C Shares*
Year Ended 6/30/99 +0.42% -0.55%
Inception (10/21/94)
through 6/30/99 +5.60 +5.60
[FN]
*Maximum contingent deferred sales charge is 1% and is reduced to 0%
after 1 year.
**Assuming payment of applicable contingent deferred sales charge.
% Return Without % Return With
Sales Charge Sales Charge**
Class D Shares*
Year Ended 6/30/99 +0.83% -3.20%
Inception (10/21/94)
through 6/30/99 +6.13 +5.21
[FN]
*Maximum sales charge is 4%.
**Assuming maximum sales charge.
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
PORTFOLIO ABBREVIATIONS
To simplify the listings of Merrill Lynch Arkansas
Municipal Bond Fund's portfolio holdings in the Schedule
of Investments, we have abbreviated the names of many
of the securities according to the list at right.
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax (subject to)
GO General Obligation Bonds
IDR Industrial Development Revenue Bonds
PCR Pollution Control Revenue Bonds
S/F Single-Family
VRDN Variable Rate Demand Notes
<TABLE>
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (in Thousands)
<CAPTION>
S&P Moody's Face Value
Ratings Ratings Amount Issue (Note 1a)
Arkansas--86.9%
<S> <S> <C> <S> <C>
Arkansas State Development Finance Authority, S/F Mortgage Revenue Bonds (d):
AAA NR* $ 560 AMT, Series A, 7.30% due 3/01/2013 $ 588
AAA NR* 350 (Mortgage-Backed Securities Program), Series H, 6.15% due 7/01/2016 (b) 366
AA NR* 400 Arkansas State Development Finance Authority, Wastewater System Revenue Bonds
(Revolving Loan Fund), Series A, 5.85% due 12/01/2019 414
AA Aa3 350 Arkansas State, GO, Refunding (Waste Disposal and Pollution), Series B,
6.25% due 7/01/2020 365
NR* A 350 Arkansas State Student Loan Authority Revenue Bonds, AMT, Sub-Series B,
7.25% due 6/01/2009 388
A Baa2 275 Baxter County, Arkansas, IDR, Refunding (Aeroquip Corp. Project), 5.80%
due 10/01/2013 283
BBB+ A3 1,000 Camden, Arkansas, Environmental Improvement Revenue Bonds (International
Paper Co. Project), AMT, Series A, 7.625% due 11/01/2018 (h) 1,118
A1+ P1 200 Clark County, Arkansas, Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds (Reynolds
Metals Company Project), VRDN, AMT, 3.10% due 8/01/2022 (a) 200
A+ NR* 500 Conway, Arkansas, Public Facilities Board, Capital Improvement Revenue
Bonds (Hendrix College Project), 6% due 10/01/2026 522
AAA Aaa 350 Fort Smith, Arkansas, Water, Sewer and Construction Revenue Refunding
Bonds, 6% due 10/01/2012 (f) 368
AAA Aaa 250 Independence County, Arkansas, PCR, Refunding (Arkansas Power & Light Co.
Project), 6.25% due 1/01/2021 (c) 268
BBB+ Baa2 200 Jefferson County, Arkansas, PCR, Refunding (Arkansas Power & Light Co. Project),
6.30% due 6/01/2018 207
AA Aa3 500 Little Rock, Arkansas, GO, Refunding (Capital Improvement), 6.25% due 2/01/2008 507
AAA Aaa 375 Little Rock, Arkansas, Municipal Airport Revenue Refunding Bonds, 6%
due 11/01/2014 (f) 391
AAA Aaa 400 North Little Rock, Arkansas, Electric Revenue Refunding Bonds, Series A,
6.50% due 7/01/2015 (f) 456
BBB+ Baa2 300 Pope County, Arkansas, PCR, Refunding (Arkansas Power & Light Co. Project),
6.30% due 12/01/2016 312
A- NR* 500 Pulaski County, Arkansas, Hospital Revenue Bonds (Arkansas Children's
Hospital Project), Series A, 6.20% due 3/01/2022 511
AAA Aaa 400 Saline County, Arkansas, Retirement Housing and Healthcare Facilities Board,
Revenue Refunding Bonds (Evangelist Lutheran Project), 5.80% due 6/01/2011 (e) 416
NR* A1 500 University of Arkansas, Various Facility Revenue Bonds (Fayetteville Campus),
5% due 11/01/2022 465
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
<TABLE>
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS (concluded) (in Thousands)
<CAPTION>
S&P Moody's Face Value
Ratings Ratings Amount Issue (Note 1a)
Puerto Rico--11.8%
<S> <S> <C> <S> <C>
AAA Aaa $ 325 Puerto Rico Commonwealth, GO, 6.50% due 7/01/2004 (g) $ 361
A1+ VMIG1++ 200 Puerto Rico Commonwealth, Government Development Bank, Revenue Refunding
Bonds, VRDN, 2.55% due 12/01/2015 (a)(f) 200
A Aaa 320 Puerto Rico Commonwealth, Highway and Transportation Authority, Highway Revenue
Bonds, Series T, 6.625% due 7/01/2002 (g) 347
A1+ VMIG1++ 200 Puerto Rico Commonwealth Highway and Transportation Authority, Transportation
Revenue Refunding Bonds, VRDN, Series A, 2.85% due 7/01/2028 (a)(e) 200
Total Investments (Cost--$8,744)--98.7% 9,253
Variation Margin on Financial Futures Contracts**--0.0% 3
Other Assets Less Liabilities--1.3% 117
-------
Net Assets--100.0% $ 9,373
=======
<FN>
(a)The interest rate is subject to change periodically based upon
prevailing market rates. The interest rate shown is the rate in
effect at July 31, 1999.
(b)FNMA Collateralized.
(c)FSA Insured.
(d)GNMA Collateralized.
(e)AMBAC Insured.
(f)MBIA Insured.
(g)Prerefunded.
(h)All or a portion of security held as collateral in connection
with open financial futures contracts.
*Not Rated.
**Financial futures contracts sold as of July 31, 1999 were as
follows:
(in Thousands)
Value
Number of Expiration (Notes
Contracts Issue Date 1a & 1b)
10 US Treasury Bonds September 1999 $1,150
------
Total Financial Futures Contracts Sold
(Total Contract Price--$1,142) $1,150
======
++Highest short-term rating by Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
Ratings of issues shown have not been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
<TABLE>
Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of July 31, 1999
<S> <S> <C> <C>
Assets: Investments, at value (identified cost--$8,744,225) (Note 1a) $ 9,252,973
Cash 75,238
Receivables:
Interest $ 129,558
Variation margin (Note 1b) 3,438 132,996
------------
Deferred organization expenses (Note 1e) 2,033
Prepaid registration fees and other assets (Note 1e) 6,458
------------
Total assets 9,469,698
------------
Liabilities: Payables:
Beneficial interest redeemed 21,954
Dividends to shareholders (Note 1f) 5,092
Distributor (Note 2) 2,705
Investment adviser (Note 2) 823 30,574
------------
Accrued expenses and other liabilities 66,069
------------
Total liabilities 96,643
------------
Net Assets: Net assets $ 9,373,055
============
Net Assets Class A Shares of beneficial interest, $.10 par value,
Consist of: unlimited number of shares authorized $ 25,086
Class B Shares of beneficial interest, $.10 par value,
unlimited number of shares authorized 46,367
Class C Shares of beneficial interest, $.10 par value,
unlimited number of shares authorized 9,440
Class D Shares of beneficial interest, $.10 par value,
unlimited number of shares authorized 9,348
Paid-in capital in excess of par 8,834,332
Accumulated distributions in excess of realized capital gains on
investments--net (Note 1f) (52,453)
Unrealized appreciation on investments--net 500,935
------------
Net assets $ 9,373,055
============
Net Asset Value: Class A--Based on net assets of $2,605,979 and 250,857 shares of
beneficial interest outstanding $ 10.39
============
Class B--Based on net assets of $4,815,401 and 463,669 shares of
beneficial interest outstanding $ 10.39
============
Class C--Based on net assets of $980,734 and 94,397 shares of
beneficial interest outstanding $ 10.39
============
Class D--Based on net assets of $970,941 and 93,482 shares of
beneficial interest outstanding $ 10.39
============
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)
<TABLE>
Statement of Operations
<CAPTION>
For the Year Ended
July 31, 1999
<S> <S> <C> <C>
Investment Income Interest and amortization of premium and discount earned $ 621,092
(Note 1d):
Expenses: Investment advisory fees (Note 2) $ 60,669
Professional fees 45,307
Printing and shareholder reports 40,728
Accounting services (Note 2) 38,317
Account maintenance and distribution fees--Class B (Note 2) 29,847
Registration fees (Note 1e) 17,210
Amortization of organization expenses (Note 1e) 12,362
Account maintenance and distribution fees--Class C (Note 2) 6,794
Transfer agent fees--Class B (Note 2) 4,032
Pricing fees 4,005
Custodian fees 2,007
Transfer agent fees--Class A (Note 2) 1,644
Account maintenance fees--Class D (Note 2) 1,020
Transfer agent fees--Class C (Note 2) 708
Trustees' fees and expenses 703
Transfer agent fees--Class D (Note 2) 579
Other 1,081
------------
Total expenses before reimbursement 267,013
Reimbursement of expenses (Note 2) (49,639)
------------
Total expenses after reimbursement 217,374
------------
Investment income--net 403,718
------------
Realized & Realized gain on investments--net 46,480
Unrealized Change in unrealized appreciation on investments--net (295,486)
Gain (Loss) on ------------
Investments--Net Net Increase in Net Assets Resulting from Operations $ 154,712
(Notes 1b, 1d & 3): ============
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)
<TABLE>
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
<CAPTION>
For the Year Ended July 31,
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets: 1999 1998
<S> <S> <C> <C>
Operations: Investment income--net $ 403,718 $ 460,156
Realized gain on investments--net 46,480 37,606
Change in unrealized appreciation on investments--net (295,486) (5,006)
------------ ------------
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations 154,712 492,756
------------ ------------
Dividends & Investment income--net:
Distributions to Class A (116,434) (97,870)
Shareholders Class B (208,977) (274,166)
(Note 1f): Class C (38,527) (42,239)
Class D (39,780) (45,881)
Realized gain on investments--net:
Class A (401) (5,546)
Class B (871) (24,787)
Class C (157) (3,803)
Class D (137) (3,470)
In excess of realized gain on investments--net:
Class A (7,697) (3,301)
Class B (16,730) (14,755)
Class C (3,009) (2,264)
Class D (2,632) (2,065)
------------ ------------
Net decrease in net assets resulting from dividends and
distributions to shareholders (435,352) (520,147)
------------ ------------
Beneficial Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from beneficial
Interest interest transactions (2,495,606) 998,869
Transactions ------------ ------------
(Note 4):
Net Assets: Total increase (decrease) in net assets (2,776,246) 971,478
Beginning of year 12,149,301 11,177,823
------------ ------------
End of year $ 9,373,055 $ 12,149,301
============ ============
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)
<TABLE>
Financial Highlights
<CAPTION>
Class A
For the
Period
The following per share data and ratios have been derived Sept. 30,
from information provided in the financial statements. 1994++ to
For the Year Ended July 31, July 31,
Increase (Decrease) in Net Asset Value: 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
<S> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Net asset value, beginning of period $ 10.69 $ 10.72 $ 10.34 $ 10.29 $ 10.00
Operating -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Performance: Investment income--net .43 .47 .52 .55 .50
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on
investments--net (.27) .03 .38 .05 .29
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total from investment operations .16 .50 .90 .60 .79
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Less dividends and distributions:
Investment income--net (.43) (.47) (.52) (.55) (.50)
Realized gain on investments--net --++++ (.04) -- -- --
In excess of realized gain on
investments--net (.03) (.02) -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total dividends and distributions (.46) (.53) (.52) (.55) (.50)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value, end of period $ 10.39 $ 10.69 $ 10.72 $ 10.34 $ 10.29
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Total Investment Based on net asset value per share 1.42% 4.79% 8.94% 5.94% 8.13%+++
Return:** ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratios to Average Expenses, net of reimbursement 1.63% 1.18% .83% .49% .11%*
Net Assets: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Expenses 2.08% 1.63% 1.92% 3.17% 2.32%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Investment income--net 4.00% 4.38% 4.96% 5.28% 5.94%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Supplemental Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 2,606 $ 3,246 $ 1,781 $ 1,710 $ 2,251
Data: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Portfolio turnover 9.12% 61.45% 41.07% 28.82% 28.64%
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
<FN>
*Annualized.
**Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.
++Commencement of operations.
++++Amount is less than $.01 per share.
+++Aggregate total investment return.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)
<TABLE>
Financial Highlights (continued)
<CAPTION>
Class B
For the
Period
The following per share data and ratios have been derived Sept. 30,
from information provided in the financial statements. 1994++ to
For the Year Ended July 31, July 31,
Increase (Decrease) in Net Asset Value: 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
<S> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Net asset value, beginning of period $ 10.69 $ 10.71 $ 10.34 $ 10.29 $ 10.00
Operating -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Performance: Investment income--net .37 .42 .46 .50 .46
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on
investments--net (.27) .04 .37 .05 .29
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total from investment operations .10 .46 .83 .55 .75
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Less dividends and distributions:
Investment income--net (.37) (.42) (.46) (.50) (.46)
Realized gain on investments--net --++++ (.04) -- -- --
In excess of realized gain on
investments--net (.03) (.02) -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total dividends and distributions (.40) (.48) (.46) (.50) (.46)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value, end of period $ 10.39 $ 10.69 $ 10.71 $ 10.34 $ 10.29
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Total Investment Based on net asset value per share .91% 4.35% 8.29% 5.39% 7.68%+++
Return:** ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratios to Average Expenses, net of reimbursement 2.13% 1.70% 1.34% 1.00% .63%*
Net Assets: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Expenses 2.58% 2.16% 2.44% 3.69% 2.83%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Investment income--net 3.50% 3.89% 4.46% 4.77% 5.41%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Supplemental Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 4,815 $ 6,539 $ 7,527 $ 7,573 $ 8,145
Data: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Portfolio turnover 9.12% 61.45% 41.07% 28.82% 28.64%
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
<FN>
*Annualized.
**Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.
++Commencement of operations.
++++Amount is less than $.01 per share.
+++Aggregate total investment return.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (continued)
<TABLE>
Financial Highlights (continued)
<CAPTION>
Class C
For the
Period
The following per share data and ratios have been derived Sept. 30,
from information provided in the financial statements. 1994++ to
For the Year Ended July 31, July 31,
Increase (Decrease) in Net Asset Value: 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
<S> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Net asset value, beginning of period $ 10.69 $ 10.72 $ 10.34 $ 10.30 $ 9.92
Operating -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Performance: Investment income--net .36 .41 .46 .49 .41
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on
investments--net (.27) .03 .38 .04 .38
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total from investment operations .09 .44 .84 .53 .79
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Less dividends and distributions:
Investment income--net (.36) (.41) (.46) (.49) (.41)
Realized gain on investments--net --++++ (.04) -- -- --
In excess of realized gain on
investments--net (.03) (.02) -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total dividends and distributions (.39) (.47) (.46) (.49) (.41)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value, end of period $ 10.39 $ 10.69 $ 10.72 $ 10.34 $ 10.30
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Total Investment Based on net asset value per share .81% 4.16% 8.29% 5.19% 8.13%+++
Return:** ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratios to Average Expenses, net of reimbursement 2.23% 1.80% 1.44% 1.11% .85%*
Net Assets: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Expenses 2.68% 2.25% 2.51% 3.81% 2.90%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Investment income--net 3.40% 3.79% 4.36% 4.68% 5.00%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Supplemental Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 981 $ 1,202 $ 843 $ 681 $ 558
Data: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Portfolio turnover 9.12% 61.45% 41.07% 28.82% 28.64%
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
<FN>
*Annualized.
**Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.
++Commencement of operations.
++++Amount is less than $.01 per share.
+++Aggregate total investment return.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
FINANCIAL INFORMATION (concluded)
<TABLE>
Financial Highlights (concluded)
<CAPTION>
Class D
For the
Period
The following per share data and ratios have been derived Sept. 30,
from information provided in the financial statements. 1994++ to
For the Year Ended July 31, July 31,
Increase (Decrease) in Net Asset Value: 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
<S> <S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Per Share Net asset value, beginning of period $ 10.69 $ 10.71 $ 10.34 $ 10.29 $ 9.92
Operating -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Performance: Investment income--net .42 .46 .51 .54 .46
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on
investments--net (.27) .04 .37 .05 .37
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total from investment operations .15 .50 .88 .59 .83
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Less dividends and distributions:
Investment income--net (.42) (.46) (.51) (.54) (.46)
Realized gain on investments--net --++++ (.04) -- -- --
In excess of realized gain on
investments--net (.03) (.02) -- -- --
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total dividends and distributions (.45) (.52) (.51) (.54) (.46)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value, end of period $ 10.39 $ 10.69 $ 10.71 $ 10.34 $ 10.29
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Total Investment Based on net asset value per share 1.32% 4.79% 8.73% 5.84% 8.54%+++
Return:** ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratios to Average Expenses, net of reimbursement 1.73% 1.29% .92% .60% .29%*
Net Assets: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Expenses 2.18% 1.74% 2.03% 3.31% 2.37%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Investment income--net 3.90% 4.29% 4.87% 5.18% 5.64%*
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Supplemental Net assets, end of period (in thousands) $ 971 $ 1,162 $ 1,027 $ 1,081 $ 723
Data: ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Portfolio turnover 9.12% 61.45% 41.07% 28.82% 28.64%
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
<FN>
*Annualized.
**Total investment returns exclude the effects of sales charges.
++Commencement of operations.
++++Amount is less than $.01 per share.
+++Aggregate total investment return.
See Notes to Financial Statements.
</TABLE>
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Significant Accounting Policies:
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund (the "Fund") is part of
the Merrill Lynch Multi-State Municipal Series Trust (the "Trust").
The Fund is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 as a
non-diversified, open-end management investment company. The Fund's
financial statements are prepared in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles, which may require the use of
management accruals and estimates. The Fund offers four classes of
shares under the Merrill Lynch Select Pricing SM System. Shares of
Class A and Class D are sold with a front-end sales charge. Shares
of Class B and Class C may be subject to a contingent deferred sales
charge. All classes of shares have identical voting, dividend,
liquidation and other rights and the same terms and conditions,
except that Class B, Class C and Class D Shares bear certain
expenses related to the account maintenance of such shares, and
Class B and Class C Shares also bear certain expenses related to the
distribution of such shares. Each class has exclusive voting rights
with respect to matters relating to its account maintenance and
distribution expenditures. The following is a summary of significant
accounting policies followed by the Fund.
(a) Valuation of investments--Municipal bonds and other portfolio
securities are traded primarily in the over-the-counter municipal
bond and money markets and are valued at the last available bid
price in the over-the-counter market or on the basis of yield
equivalents as obtained from one or more dealers that make markets
in the securities. Financial futures contracts and options thereon,
which are traded on exchanges, are valued at their settlement prices
as of the close of such exchanges. Short-term investments with a
remaining maturity of sixty days or less are valued on an amortized
cost basis, which approximates market value. Securities and assets
for which market quotations are not readily available are valued at
fair value as determined in good faith by or under the direction of
the Board of Trustees of the Trust, including valuations furnished
by a pricing service retained by the Trust, which may utilize a
matrix system for valuations. The procedures of the pricing service
and its valuations are reviewed by the officers of the Trust under
the general supervision of the Trustees.
(b) Derivative financial instruments--The Fund may engage in various
portfolio strategies to seek to increase its return by hedging its
portfolio against adverse movements in the debt markets. Losses may
arise due to changes in the value of the contract or if the
counterparty does not perform under the contract.
* Financial futures contracts--The Fund may purchase or sell
financial rate futures contracts and options on such futures
contracts for the purpose of hedging the market risk on existing
portfolio holdings or the intended purchase of securities. Futures
contracts are contracts for delayed delivery of securities at a
specific future date and at a specific price or yield. Upon entering
into a contract, the Fund deposits and maintains as collateral such
initial margin as required by the exchange on which the transaction
is effected. Pursuant to the contract, the Fund agrees to receive
from or pay to the broker an amount of cash equal to the daily
fluctuation in value of the contract. Such receipts or payments are
known as variation margin and are recorded by the Fund as unrealized
gains or losses. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a
realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the value of
the contract at the time it was opened and the value at the time it
was closed.
(c) Income taxes--It is the Fund's policy to comply with the
requirements of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated
investment companies and to distribute substantially all of its
taxable income to its shareholders. Therefore, no Federal income tax
provision is required.
(d) Security transactions and investment income--Security
transactions are recorded on the dates the transactions are entered
into (the trade dates). Interest income is recognized on the accrual
basis. Discounts and market premiums are amortized into interest
income. Realized gains and losses on security transactions are
determined on the identified cost basis.
(e) Deferred organization expenses and prepaid registration fees--
Deferred organization expenses are charged to expense on a straight-
line basis over a period not exceeding five years. Prepaid
registration fees are charged to expense as the related shares are
issued.
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (concluded)
(f) Dividends and distributions--Dividends from net investment
income are declared daily and paid monthly. Distributions of capital
gains are recorded on the ex-dividend dates. Distributions in excess
of realized capital gains are due primarily to differing tax
treatments for futures transactions and post-October losses.
2. Investment Advisory Agreement and
Transactions with Affiliates:
The Fund has entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with Fund
Asset Management, L.P. ("FAM"). The general partner of FAM is
Princeton Services, Inc. ("PSI"), an indirect wholly-owned
subsidiary of Merrill Lynch & Co., Inc. ("ML & Co."), which is the
limited partner. The Fund has also entered into a Distribution
Agreement and Distribution Plans with Merrill Lynch Funds
Distributor ("MLFD" or the "Distributor"), a division of Princeton
Funds Distributor, Inc. ("PFD"), which is a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Merrill Lynch Group, Inc.
FAM is responsible for the management of the Fund's portfolio and
provides the necessary personnel, facilities, equipment and certain
other services necessary to the operations of the Fund. For such
services, the Fund pays a monthly fee based upon the average daily
value of the Fund's net assets at the following annual rates: .55%
of the Fund's average daily net assets not exceeding $500 million;
.525% of average daily net assets in excess of $500 million but not
exceeding $1 billion; and .50% of average daily net assets in excess
of $1 billion. For the year ended July 31, 1999, FAM earned fees of
$60,669 of which $49,639 was voluntarily waived.
Pursuant to the Distribution Plans adopted by the Fund in accordance
with Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Fund
pays the Distributor ongoing account maintenance and distribution
fees. The fees are accrued daily and paid monthly at annual rates
based upon the average daily net assets of the shares as follows:
Account Distribution
Maintenance Fee Fee
Class B .25% .25%
Class C .25% .35%
Class D .10% --
Pursuant to a sub-agreement with the Distributor, Merrill Lynch,
Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated ("MLPF&S"), a subsidiary of ML &
Co., also provides account maintenance and distribution services to
the Fund. The ongoing account maintenance fee compensates the
Distributor and MLPF&S for providing account maintenance services to
Class B, Class C and Class D shareholders. The ongoing distribution
fee compensates the Distributor and MLPF&S for providing shareholder
and distribution-related services to Class B and Class C
shareholders.
For the year ended July 31, 1999, MLFD earned underwriting discounts
and MLPF&S earned dealer concessions on sales of the Fund's Class A
and Class D Shares as follows:
MLFD MLPF&S
Class A $ 82 $ 686
Class D $314 $3,728
For the year ended July 31, 1999, MLPF&S received contingent
deferred sales charges of $7,741 relating to transactions in Class B
Shares.
Financial Data Services, Inc. ("FDS"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of
ML & Co., is the Fund's transfer agent.
Accounting services are provided to the Fund by FAM at cost.
Certain officers and/or trustees of the Fund are officers and/or
directors of FAM, PSI, FDS, PFD, and/or ML & Co.
3. Investments:
Purchases and sales of investments, excluding short-term securities,
for the the year ended July 31, 1999 were $965,000 and $3,316,517,
respectively.
Net realized gains for the year ended July 31, 1999 and net
unrealized gains (losses) as of July 31, 1999 were as follows:
Unrealized
Realized Gains
Gains (Losses)
Long-term investments $ 46,480 $ 508,748
Financial futures contracts -- (7,813)
---------- ----------
Total $ 46,480 $ 500,935
========== ==========
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
As of July 31, 1999, net unrealized appreciation for Federal income
tax purposes aggregated $508,748, of which $515,968 related to
appreciated securities and $7,220 related to depreciated securities
The aggregate cost of investments at July 31, 1999 for Federal
income tax purposes was $8,744,225.
4. Beneficial Interest Transactions:
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived from beneficial
interest transactions was $(2,495,606) and $998,869 for the years
ended July 31, 1999 and July 31, 1998, respectively.
Transactions in shares of beneficial interest for each class were as
follows:
Class A Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1999 Shares Amount
Shares sold 58,547 $ 628,883
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends
and distributions 7,659 81,888
---------- -----------
Total issued 66,206 710,771
Shares redeemed (118,930) (1,273,756)
---------- -----------
Net decrease (52,724) $ (562,985)
========== ===========
Class A Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1998 Shares Amount
Shares sold 171,813 $ 1,840,104
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends
and distributions 4,902 52,499
---------- -----------
Total issued 176,715 1,892,603
Shares redeemed (39,318) (419,167)
---------- -----------
Net increase 137,397 $ 1,473,436
========== ===========
Class B Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1999 Shares Amount
Shares sold 30,609 $ 327,336
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends
and distributions 7,428 79,411
---------- -----------
Total issued 38,037 406,747
Shares redeemed (186,045) (1,981,549)
---------- -----------
Net decrease (148,008) $(1,574,802)
========== ===========
Class B Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1998 Shares Amount
Shares sold 41,745 $ 446,670
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends
and distributions 9,094 97,266
---------- -----------
Total issued 50,839 543,936
Shares redeemed (141,770) (1,516,844)
---------- -----------
Net decrease (90,931) $ (972,908)
========== ===========
Class C Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1999 Shares Amount
Shares sold 14,301 $ 153,149
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends
and distributions 3,344 35,776
---------- -----------
Total issued 17,645 188,925
Shares redeemed (35,638) (382,248)
---------- -----------
Net decrease (17,993) $ (193,323)
========== ===========
Class C Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1998 Shares Amount
Shares sold 42,286 $ 450,449
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends
and distributions 4,009 42,904
---------- -----------
Total issued 46,295 493,353
Shares redeemed (12,517) (133,300)
---------- -----------
Net decrease 33,778 $ 360,053
========== ===========
Class D Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1999 Shares Amount
Shares sold 12,204 $ 130,625
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends
and distributions 2,377 25,384
---------- -----------
Total issued 14,581 156,009
Shares redeemed (29,804) (320,505)
---------- -----------
Net decrease (15,223) $ (164,496)
========== ===========
Class D Shares for the Year Dollar
Ended July 31, 1998 Shares Amount
Shares sold 15,871 $ 170,444
Shares issued to shareholders
in reinvestment of dividends
and distributions 2,427 25,954
---------- -----------
Total issued 18,298 196,398
Shares redeemed (5,458) (58,110)
---------- -----------
Net increase 12,840 $ 138,288
========== ===========
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
<AUDIT-REPORT>
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
The Board of Trustees and Shareholders,
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund of
Merrill Lynch Multi-State Municipal Series Trust:
We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and
liabilities, including the schedule of investments, of Merrill Lynch
Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund of Merrill Lynch Multi-State Municipal
Series Trust as of July 31, 1999, the related statements of
operations for the year then ended and changes in net assets for
each of the years in the two-year period then ended, and the
financial highlights for each of the years in the four-year period
then ended and for the period September 30, 1994 (commencement of
operations) to July 31, 1995. These financial statements and the
financial highlights are the responsibility of the Fund's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements and the financial highlights based on our
audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted
auditing standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform
the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial
statements and the financial highlights are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements.
Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned at July 31,
1999 by correspondence with the custodian and broker. An audit also
includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant
estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall
financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide
a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such financial statements and financial highlights
present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund of Merrill Lynch Multi-
State Municipal Series Trust as of July 31, 1999, the results of its
operations, the changes in its net assets, and the financial
highlights for the respective stated periods in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.
Deloitte & Touche LLP
Princeton, New Jersey
September 13, 1999
</AUDIT-REPORT>
IMPORTANT TAX INFORMATION (unaudited)
All of the net investment income distributions paid monthly by
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund during its taxable year
ended July 31, 1999 qualify as tax-exempt interest dividends for
Federal income tax purposes.
Additionally, the following table summarizes the taxable
distributions paid by the Fund during the year:
Record Payable Ordinary
Date Date Income
12/21/98 12/31/98 $.029796
Please retain this information for your records.
Merrill Lynch Arkansas Municipal Bond Fund
July 31, 1999
OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES
Terry K. Glenn, President and Trustee
James H. Bodurtha, Trustee
Herbert I. London, Trustee
Robert R. Martin, Trustee
Joseph L. May, Trustee
Andre F. Perold, Trustee
Arthur Zeikel, Trustee
Vincent R. Giordano, Senior Vice President
Hugh T. Hurley III, Vice President
Kenneth A. Jacob, Vice President
Donald C. Burke, Vice President and Treasurer
Alice A. Pellegrino, Secretary
Custodian
State Street Bank and Trust Company
P.O. Box 351
Boston, MA 02101
Transfer Agent
Financial Data Services, Inc.
4800 Deer Lake Drive East
Jacksonville, FL 32246-6484
(800) 637-3863
